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Answering questions about canine influenza

After recent media coverage of canine influenza, you're likely to get some questions about this illness. Clinical signs include a soft, moist cough and nasal discharge, says Dr. Gail Golab, assistant director of communications for the AVMA. "If clients call and report these signs, they should bring their dog in for a diagnosis," she says. "And because the illness spreads quickly in crowds, keep these dogs separated from others in the clinic and waiting room."

"There are no vaccines for the illness yet, but the mortality rate is low—only about 5 percent to 8 percent," Golab says. "Most dogs recover with no long-term effects."